Sunday alcohol sales proposal gets support in Jasper County

A Sunday alcohol sales referendum could appear on Jasper County ballots in November.

County Council has passed the second reading of an ordinance to allow residents to vote whether to allow the sale of beer and wine on Sundays.

Some members of the community, including council members Marty Sauls and Barbara Clark, say it would benefit the economy.

“It wouldn’t really affect my business because I sell hard liquor,” Moonshiners owner Keefe Blatchley said. “But I know a lot of people travel out of town to go buy their beer on Sunday and if this passes, they can just stay in town to buy it.”

Blatchley said the proposed change would generate tax revenue.

“The economy is so bad and we need anything we can get to generate revenue for our county,” Blatchley said.

El Ranchito restaurant manager and co-owner Hector Vera agreed. He said not allowing Sunday sales has a negative impact on his business.

“This is a Mexican restaurant and we are known for our drinks,” Vera said. “And even though this is just for beer and wine, sometimes people come in here and want to drink some more. And when we say no, we cannot sell, they don’t like it.”

Vera said he’s seen some customers go so far as try to bring in their own alcohol.

Opponents have expressed disappointment over the possible change.

“I hope they don’t do that for the simple reason that alcohol has become an epidemic and if people want to buy it, they have six other days to buy it,” evangelist Mary Simmons said. “And although Sunday is not the original day of worship, it should not be allowed.”